Royal International Air Tattoo: Decision on camping village bid
Summary
Plans to use fields as camping sites for Royal International Air Tattoo ( RIAT ) volunteers and contractors have been given the go-ahead. The Royal Air Force Charitable Trust Enterprises has been granted permission by planners to use agricultural land near Fairford to site caravans for up to 28 days a year.
Details
The north-east site, referred to as Cutlers Hill, will host a volunteer village with at most 100 of the proposed 150 caravans, while the south-western site, Horcott Hill, would accommodate up to 50 caravans for contractors during RIAT. And both sites would use the existing vehicular accesses off of Horcott Road. Emma Wellman, RIAT’s operations director, spoke at Cotswold District Council’s planning committee meeting.
She said there had been no objections to the plans from members of the public or consultees and explained it was referred to the committee because the site is larger than one hectare. “As most of you will be aware, the Royal International Air Tattoo is one of the largest military air shows in the world,” she said.
“It has taken place annually at RAF Fairford since 1985 and makes a significant contribution to the local economy.” She explained all proceeds that go to the charitable trust provides science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education for children and the trust invites 10,000 schoolchildren to attend the event.
Related stories
“RIAT also provides invaluable opportunities for UK Plc to host international delegations and provide defence industry engagement through allied events hosted by the RAF chief of the air staff and the organisers ourselves RAF CTE.” she said. She said in the run-up to each year’s show, their small team is joined by an army of volunteers and contractors who are fundamental to the delivery of RIAT.
“We host approximately 1,400 volunteers, comprising a diverse mix of people ranging from those with a passion for aviation to serving military personnel,” she added. She said the vast majority of the camp site falls within permitted development rights but it was confirmed last year that they need planning permission for the temporary caravan pitches.
Councillor Daryl Corps (C, Moreton West) proposed approving the scheme in line with officer’s recommendation and this was seconded by Cllr Julia Judd (C, Ermin). The committee voted unanimously to approve the scheme. This year’s RIAT has been cancelled due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East due to uncertainty over access to RAF Fairford as it is being used by the United States Air Force.
Report source: Gloucestershire Live